An ingrown toenail can be painful and frustrating, often making everyday activities uncomfortable. While some mild cases can be treated at home, severe or recurring ingrown toenails require professional care to prevent infections and long-term complications. In this guide, we’ll explore safe home treatment options and highlight when it’s essential to see our podiatrist.

Can You Treat an Ingrown Toenail at Home?

If you are in good overall health and your ingrown toenail is mild (without severe pain or signs of infection), home care may be an option. However, seeking professional care is often the safest and most effective approach. If you decide to try home treatment, follow the steps outlined below carefully.

When to See Dr. Miyazaki Instead

You should avoid home treatment and seek immediate podiatric care if:

• You have diabetes, neuropathy, or poor circulation – These conditions increase the risk of serious infections and complications.
• The pain is severe – Significant discomfort can indicate a deeper issue requiring professional treatment.
• You notice signs of infection – Redness, swelling, pus drainage, or red streaks around the nail are warning signs.
• You experience recurring ingrown toenails – Frequent ingrown nails may stem from improper nail trimming, genetics, or footwear issues that require expert care.

If any of these apply to you, contact our office immediately to prevent further complications.

How to Treat an Ingrown Toenail at Home

If you’ve determined home care is appropriate, follow these steps:

1. Soak your foot in warm water with Epsom salt or mild soap for 15 minutes, three times a day.
2. Gently massage the skin around the nail to reduce pressure.
3. Apply an antibiotic or antiseptic cream to prevent infection.
4. Loosely bandage the toe to protect it from irritation.
5. Wear open-toed shoes or go barefoot at home to minimize pressure on the nail.

Important: Do NOT attempt to cut or remove any part of the nail yourself. DIY nail removal often leads to infection and worsens the problem.

Monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain worsens, redness spreads, or swelling increases, contact our office for professional treatment.

Professional Treatment for Ingrown Toenails

If home remedies don’t work or your ingrown toenail is severe, Dr. Miyazaki can provide safe, effective treatment. Here’s what to expect:

• In-office nail removal – Our expert podiatrist will numb the area and remove the ingrown portion of the nail safely.
• Infection prevention – If needed, a topical or oral antibiotic may be prescribed.
• Permanent solution for chronic cases – If you frequently experience ingrown toenails, our podiatrist can remove part of the nail root to prevent recurrence.

The procedure is quick, virtually painless, and provides immediate relief. Most patients resume normal activities the same day with minimal aftercare.

Don’t Ignore an Ingrown Toenail—Get the Right Treatment Today!

Whether you try home treatment or opt for professional care, don’t let an ingrown toenail disrupt your life. If you need expert treatment, we’re here to help. Our office follows strict health and safety measures to ensure a comfortable visit.

Call our Berkeley office today at (510) 647-3744 to schedule an appointment and get relief from your ingrown toenail.